Haggis paired with whisky & gins in 56 North distillery!

If you’re after a taste of Scotland’s culinary and distilling traditions, the Haggis paired with whisky and gins tour at 56 North Distillery offers a unique blend of local flavors and craftsmanship. For just $30 per person, this 2-hour experience takes you inside one of Edinburgh’s most authentic gin bars and working distilleries, where you’ll get to enjoy traditional Scottish haggis, along with a curated tasting of three spirits—including their own South Loch Gin.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it seamlessly combines traditional Scottish cuisine with educational tastings. The intimate setting at Scotland’s original gin bar gives you a genuine flavor of Edinburgh’s distilling scene, and the self-guided nature allows you to savor at your own pace. However, note that some travelers have found the experience a little quiet and not overly detailed, so it’s best suited for those looking for a relaxed, informal tasting rather than a comprehensive tour.

This tour is ideal for spirits lovers, foodies, and anyone curious about Scotland’s distilling heritage. If you’re keen on pairing local dishes with craft spirits in an authentic setting, this is a cozy, approachable choice that offers good value for money.

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish cuisine: traditional haggis served with neeps, tatties, and peppercorn sauce.
• Self-guided tasting: enjoy three spirits, including two South Loch Gin & tonics, at your own pace.
• Working distillery experience: taste spirits made on-site and learn about the distillation process.
• Flexible and relaxed: no guided commentary, ideal for a casual, unhurried experience.
• Accessible for spirit fans: includes a single malt whisky dram and gin samples with tasting notes.
• Limited accessibility: not suitable for wheelchair users or children under 18.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, 56 North Distillery is more than just a bar—it’s a genuine working distillery with a storied history as Scotland’s original gin bar. Walking in, you’ll find yourself in a warm, inviting space where the aroma of juniper, malt, and spices fills the air. The bar’s historic charm and intimate atmosphere set the perfect tone for tasting and learning about Scotland’s spirits.

What the Tour Includes

For £30, the experience offers a hearty serving of traditional Scottish haggis, accompanied by neeps & tatties—mashed turnip and potato—and a drizzle of peppercorn sauce. If you’re vegetarian or prefer a plant-based option, the Veggie Haggis is available, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of Scotland’s national dish.

After the food, you’ll move on to self-guided tastings of three spirits. These include:
– A single malt whisky dram: appreciated neat, allowing you to explore its nuances.
– Two servings of South Loch Gin & tonics: crafted on-site using the distillery’s own gin, paired with Fever-Tree tonic. You’ll get tasting notes for each, and the option to add ice or mixers if preferred.

The Spirit Tasting Experience

What truly makes this experience stand out is the on-site distillery aspect. Unlike pre-made tastings, you get to sample spirits that are produced locally, gaining insight into the distillation process and flavor profiles. The South Loch Gin is a highlight, offering a distinct Scottish character, and the presentation of neat spirits enables you to truly appreciate their flavor.

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Atmosphere and Guide

Since this is a self-guided tasting, there’s no formal commentary, which some travelers find relaxing and flexible. However, as one review noted, the experience can be somewhat quiet and not very informative—a good fit if you prefer to explore at your own pace and ask questions of the knowledgeable bar team when needed.

Practical Details

• Duration: Around 2 hours, with flexible start times (check availability).
• Meeting Point: Just walk into 56 North, and staff will greet you.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-stakes booking.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, and children under 18 cannot attend.
• Language: English-only experience.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour offers a relaxed, informal way to enjoy some of Scotland’s most iconic flavors without the pressure of a guided commentary. It’s perfect for spirits enthusiasts who enjoy tasting at their own pace and for those interested in authentic local food and drink. The focus on self-guided sampling and on-site production adds a personal touch missing from more commercialized tours.

What Could Be Better?

Some guests have expressed that the experience can feel somewhat quiet and lacking in detailed explanations. If you’re seeking a highly educational or lively guided tour, this may not be your best choice. However, if you value a cozy environment with quality tastings, you’ll find this experience quite satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic Scottish food and craft spirits, especially if they enjoy a laid-back, self-paced tasting. It’s ideal for those who already have an interest in whisky and gin, or anyone wanting to sample local flavors in a genuine setting. The price point makes it an accessible way to indulge in Scottish tradition without a large commitment, and the inclusion of on-site distilling provides insight into Scotland’s distilling craft.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate taste of Edinburgh’s spirits scene combined with a hearty meal, this tour offers great value. Keep in mind the quieter atmosphere if you’re looking for a lively guided experience, but for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, it’s a winning option.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not permitted on this experience due to age restrictions around alcohol.

Is the tasting experience guided?
No, it’s self-guided, which means you’ll enjoy the tastings at your own pace with assistance from staff if needed.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

What should I bring?
A valid passport or ID card is needed to verify your age and identity.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, but start times are flexible depending on availability.

Is the distillery accessible?
Unfortunately, this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of traditional Scottish cuisine with on-site spirits tasting and the historic setting at Scotland’s original gin bar make it memorable and authentic.

In the end, if you’re eager to indulge in some of Scotland’s iconic flavors in an authentic, relaxed environment, this haggis paired with whisky and gin experience at 56 North Distillery is well worth considering. It offers genuine taste, a chance to learn about local spirits, and a cozy atmosphere—an experience that captures the essence of Edinburgh’s spirit scene without fuss or formality.

You can check availability for your dates here: